8 Are Arrested in Oxnard After Monthlong Narcotics Investigation

A monthlong narcotics investigation has resulted in the arrests of eight people in Oxnard and the seizure of more than 6 pounds of methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana, authorities said Thursday.

The arrests and drug seizures occurred Wednesday after an undercover purchase of 5 pounds of methamphetamine and the subsequent search of two Oxnard residences by members of the Ventura/Oxnard Narcotic Enforcement Team.

Five men were arrested after the covert drug buy in the 400 block of South Ventura Road, said Sgt. Mike Matlock. Two were also booked for possession of a loaded handgun. Three of the men unsuccessfully attempted to flee in two vehicles.

A pound of marijuana and approximately an ounce each of cocaine and methamphetamine were discovered at the home of one of the men in the 200 block of James Avenue, Matlock said.

At a second residence of one of those arrested, in the 2000 block of North Ventura Road, investigators discovered another ounce of methamphetamine as well as chemicals and materials suggesting the drug had been manufactured there. Another three people were arrested at the apartment as they allegedly attempted to destroy evidence upon detectives’ arrival, Matlock said.

Arrested were: Carlos Manuel Flores, 24; his brother, Napoleon Flores, 22; Aurelio Guerrero, 27; Ernesto Cardenas, 24; Victor Contreras Martinez, 22; Javier Barbosa Cardenas, 22; Patricia Quevedo, 23; and Jessica Cardenas, 19.